SAMOP 2025

Vom 9. März bis 14. März 2025 findet in Bonn die 88. Jahrestagung der DPG und die DPG-Frühjahrstagung der Sektion Atome, Moleküle, Quantenoptik und Photonik (SAMOP) statt. Das gesamte Tagungsprogramm und die Registrierung findet Ihr unter https://bonn25.dpg-tagungen.de. Der Arbeitskreis jDPG bietet mehrere spannende Programmpunkte auf der Tagung an, die Ihr euch nicht entgehen lassen solltet!

City Rallye

Anytime, Bonn
Join us on our City Rallye through the scientific heart of Bonn!
Explore the city's landmarks while tackling 16 tasks designed to challenge your observation and estimation skills. The City Rallye will test your problem-solving skills and scientific curiosity, offering a unique way to discover Bonn any time and at your own pace. Gather a team of friends, colleagues or anyone you’d like to get to know a little better and enjoy an engaging journey through the city!
Upload your solutions, as there will be a winning team announced at the end of the conference.
 
 
 

Tutorials

Open Quantum Systems

Solving Quantum Dynamics with QuTiP and HEOM

Sunday, March 9, 14:00–14:50, HS 3+4

Alexander Pitchford1, Simon Cross2, and Neill Lambert3 —1Department of Mathematics, Aberystwyth University, Wales, UK — 2Zurich Instruments, Zurich, Switzerland — 3Theoretical Quantum Physics Laboratory, RIKEN, Wakoshi, Saitama, Japan

QuTiP, the Quantum Toolkit in Python, is an open source code library for the simulation of quantum dynamics, best known for its open quantum system solvers. We give an overview of the features of the core package and some of the associated ‘family’ packages.
We introduce the solvers, starting with unitary dynamics, then moving on to modelling interactions of the quantum system with its environment. We demonstrate solutions to the Lindblad master equation (LME), showing the effects of decoherence and dissipation on the ensemble through jump operators. We compare this with Monte-Carlo simulations and see how the random jumps converge to the deterministic solution with sufficient iterations.
LME assumes that interactions with the environment are Markovian in nature. The Hierarchical Equations of Motion (HEOM) provide an exact model of the effects of the environment on a quantum system. We describe how this is configured using auxiliary operators and solved as coupled differential equations. We compare QuTiP’s HEOM solver with the LME solver and examine bath characteristics that exhibit Markovian noise.

Non-Markovian Quantum Dynamics: Physical Concepts and Mathematical Methods Describing Memory in Open Systems

Sunday, March 9, 14:50–15:40, HS 3+4
Heinz-Peter Breuer — Physikalisches Institut, Universität Freiburg — EUCOR Centre for Quantum Science and Quantum Computing, University of Freiburg, Germany

The dynamics of open quantum systems is often approximated by means of a Markovian process in which the open system irretrievably loses information to its surroundings, expressing the memoryless nature of the dynamics. However, open systems out of equilibrium often exhibit a pronounced non-Markovian behavior distinguished by a flow of information from the environment back to the open system. This information backflow leads to the emergence of memory effects and represents the key feature of non-Markovian quantum dynamics. In the talk I will discuss fundamental physical concepts and mathematical methods used to characterize, to quantify and to model quantum memory effects in open systems.

Quantum Control

Floquet engineering for quantum simulation

Sunday, March 9, 16:00–16:50, HS 3+4
Marín Bukov — Max Planck Institute for the Physics of Complex Systems

This lecture introduces periodically driven systems, with particular emphasis on applications in AMO-based quantum simulators. After introducing Floquet's theorem, we will focus on the physical intuition behind it and discuss how to design effective Hamiltonians with prescribed properties. In particular, we will discuss how to use strong high-frequency periodic drives to stabilize unstable equilibria, localize quantum matter, and engineer artificial magnetic fields. Time permitting, we will mention the primary role of periodic drives for the investigation of energy absorption and thermalization in closed interacting quantum systems, and introduce Floquet time crystals -- a nonequilibrium phase of matter with no equilibrium counterpart.

Quantum Optimal Control in a Nutshell

Sunday, March 9, 16:50–17:40, HS 3+4
Daniel Reich — Dahlem Center for Complex Quantum Systems and Fachbereich Physik, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany

Since the start of the 21st century, research and development of technologies actively exploiting quantum properties of light and matter has experienced a surge in popularity. To this end, quantum optimal control is one of the main tools for devising concrete protocols to manipulate quantum systems in order to achieve specific tasks in the best way possible. In this tutorial I tell you about the main principles of quantum optimal control and provide a brief summary of the key techniques used in the field. Furthermore, I demonstrate the power of the quantum optimal control toolbox via practical use cases and introduce some of the available software packages such that you can start controlling quantum systems, too.

Time-resolved Spectroscopy

Ultrafast spectroscopy

Sunday, March 9, 14:00–14:50, HS 5+6

Anchit Srivastava — Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light, Staudstrasse 2, 91058 Elangen, Germany.

Ultrafast spectroscopy has become a powerful tool for unravelling fundamental interactions in molecules, nanostructures, and solids. It enables the observation of processes on timescales from picoseconds to attoseconds. In this tutorial, I will introduce three pivotal techniques in modern ultrafast science: pump-probe, dual-comb, and field-resolved spectroscopy. We begin by discussing the pump-probe method, which monitors transient states by exciting a sample with an ultrashort pump pulse and tracking its dynamics with a temporally delayed probe pulse. Next, we explore dual-comb spectroscopy, emphasizing how two precisely stabilized frequency combs yield rapid, high-resolution data over broad spectral ranges.
Lastly, we delve into field-resolved spectroscopy, a novel approach that allows direct measurement of the electric field of light pulses in ambient conditions. Through technological developments, field-resolved methods now extend from the terahertz to the petahertz domain, providing unprecedented temporal resolution down to the attosecond regime. By combining these techniques, researchers can thoroughly characterize ultrafast processes in a variety of materials, thereby deepening our understanding of energy transfer, charge dynamics, and fundamental light-matter interactions. This tutorial aims to equip students with the essential knowledge to tackle these rapidly evolving methodologies.

Ultrafast spectroscopy: probing and controlling quantum dynamics on the fastest timescales

Sunday, March 9,14:50–15:40, HS 5+6

Gergana D. Borisova — Max-Planck-Institut für Kernphysik,  Heidelberg, Germany

The fundamental processes in atoms, molecules, and solids occur on remarkably fast timescales – from picoseconds down to attoseconds. The rapid development of ultrafast physics and attosecond science, driven by advances in the generation of shorter and more intense laser pulses, has opened new frontiers in accessing these timescales. We can now measure, understand, and even control electron and nuclear dynamics within natural quantum systems at a fundamental level.
In this tutorial, we will explore the principles of ultrafast light-matter interactions using short and intense laser fields. Key tools of ultrafast spectroscopy, including table-top high-harmonic sources for generating attosecond pulses and large-scale free-electron lasers, will be introduced. We will get to know two prominent time-resolved spectroscopic techniques in the extreme ultraviolet (XUV) regime – time-delay spectroscopy and photoelectron-photoion spectroscopy – and examine their applications in probing and manipulating ultrafast dynamics in quantum systems. Through practical examples, participants will gain insight how ultrafast spectroscopy advances our understanding of dynamical quantum phenomena.

The theory of accurate and accessible figure design

Sunday, March 9, 16:00–17:30, HS 5+6

Fabio Crameri — Undertone.design, Bern, Switzerland — International Space Science Institute (ISSI), Bern, Switzerland

In the vast landscape of scientific data, graphics serve as a golden key to its comprehension. From the depths of the cosmos to the intricacies of elementary particles, the deliberate use of diagrams, colour, typefaces and fonts, and other graphic elements in scientific visualisation enriches our understanding and enables us to appreciate the beauty and complexity of the natural world. From the properties of the light source to the ultimate recognition in the visual cortex, the study of human visual perception is extensive and has a long history. Creating accessible and accurate scientific visualization with colour has, in contrast, become easy. All necessary aspects are understood. All necessary tools exist. Here, I will provide you with the basic understanding to use --and not misuse-- the most basic graphic elements like colour for visualising everything from the Standard Model of particle physics to the Island of Stability. I will also introduce you to the newest version of the Scientific colour maps and the different palette and gradient types available therein. In just this one lecture, you shall be equipped to navigate the most-basic use of colour in your daily routine. I also hope you will then become an advocate of the scientific use of colour and other basic graphic elements yourself so that after having mastered our theory of everything, we as a community will not fail the one job left: to accurately show it to everybody else.

Exploring Science Through Board Games

Sunday, March 9, 18:00–20:00, WP-HS
Stefanie Kroker1, 2, Mika Gaedtke1, Liam Shelling Neto1, and Jens Junge3 — 1Institut für Halbleitertechnik, Technische Universität Braunschweig — 2Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt Braunschweig — 3Institut für Ludologie, SRH Hochschule für Kommunikation und Design

Board games offer a unique way to communicate scientific concepts, combining education with entertainment. We invite early-career scientists to explore the intersection of science and game design. By sharing our insights as first-time developers of Quantista, a board game project funded by the BMBF that explores quantum technology, we aim to spark new creative ideas. Participants will gain insight into the challenges of translating complex scientific topics into engaging gameplay. The workshop will include a hands-on session where attendees will work in small groups to brainstorm and develop their own scientific board game ideas on a variety of intriguing topics.

Board Game Evening

Sunday, March 9, 20:00–22:00, Foyer Wolfgang Paul Hörsaal

Board games are a great way to get people chatting. If you enjoy board games and would like to meet other conference participants on the day of arrival, just drop by. You can bring your favourite game with you, but we also have a large selection of games available.

Plenary Special Talks

Live-Podcast: Meet Your Future – Produktmanagement in der Medizintechnik

Monday, March 10, 13:00–14:30, HS 1+2

Olivia Noack — Siemens Healthineers

Du möchtest dich mit deiner beruflichen Zukunft beschäftigen? Dann komm zum Live-Interview mit Dr. Olivia Noack vorbei! Olivia arbeitet bei Siemens Healthineers als klinische Produktmanagerin für interventionelle Radiologie in der Computertomographie (CT). Im Interview wird sie von ihrem Weg vom Physikstudium zu ihrem aktuellen Job berichten, welche Hürden sie überwinden musste und wie sich ihr Arbeitsalltag gestaltet. Das Interview wird vom Podcast Team der jungen DPG produziert und ist Teil der Interview-Reihe „Meet your Future“, in der Physiker:innen im Beruf über ihren Arbeitsalltag, wegweisende Entscheidungen und persönliche Karrieretipps sprechen. Erfahre aus erster Hand, wie Olivia Noack ihren Karriereweg gemeistert hat und welche wertvollen Erfahrungen sie dabei gesammelt hat.

Panel Discussion: Finding your Path after Graduation – Different Perspectives

Tuesday, March 11, 13:00–14:30, HS XVI
At some point, every physics student is asking themselves: Should I pursue a PhD?
While some have a clear vision of their career in industry, communications or public policy, some are
very passionate about conducting their own research projects. Some just cannot wait to finally
escape academia. Others are not sure about this decision because there are many factors to
consider. If you are part of the latter group, this panel discussion is the right place to gain insights
and meet peers that are in the same situation.
We’re hosting physicists who followed different paths after their graduation, and discuss their
thought process while deciding for it. What was their personal motivation, and which arguments were decisive in favor or against pursuing a PhD? How relevant was the previous education to what they’re doing now? What is their daily work like? What are red flags, but also, what are green flags to look for in potential employers in academia,
industry and beyond? After the panel discussion, there will be the opportunity to discuss own questions with the panelists, with current doctoral researchers and with the other attendees.

Social Event

Pub Crawl

Tuesday, March 11, 20:00–23:00, Münsterplatz

Join us for a lively pub crawl through Bonn. We’ll head through the bars in groups, enjoying good drinks, great company, and a chance to explore the local pub scene. Bring your good mood and energy — it’s going to be a fun night!

Hacky Hours

DFT Tone-extraction made easy: A toolbox to extract all important parameters from a Fourier-Transformed Time-Series

Wednesday, March 12, 11:00–11:45, HS ROT

Timon Damböck and Ilja Gerhardt — light and matter group, Institute for Solid State Physics, Leibniz University of Hannover

When measuring with a quantum sensor, e.g. a magnetometer, the sensing information is contained in a time–series. The parameters of this ’tone’–response from the sensor is limited to the response of it in the measurement bandwidth. While those parameters can be obtained via a fit in the time–domain, this extraction is both slow and prone to systematical errors due to mis– or overestimation of those parameter. To circumvent this, a Discrete–Fourier–Transform (DFT) is used for the extraction of the parameters. It reveals the amplitude and the noise content in a specific bandwidth – if done correctly. Although conventional fitting methods can be used to reconstruct the amplitude and frequency below their internal resolution in the frequency domain, the use of wrong response functions in frequency space can lead to biases when comparing results with others. To overcome all this, we implemented a toolbox, which relies on estimating the parameters solely from the transformation into frequency domain – without the need for fitting. Hereby we aim to reduce the influence of systematical errors, while being fast and resource–efficient enough to assure real–time extraction and tracking of parameters in the lab.

Set up a quantum simulation from a screenshot

Wednesday, March 12, 11:45–12:30, HS ROT

Gregory Varghese Manalumbhagath — HQS Quantum Simulations

Setting up quantum simulation is often a daunting task, fraught with intricate parameter configurations and strict adherence to tool-specific conventions. To alleviate this challenge, the HQS Modeling Assistant provides an efficient way of generating requisite inputs, guiding users through module functionalities and assisting in the creation of simulation inputs through the simple and yet familiar interface of chat.
The assistant can perform simulations, as well as analyse results by generating plots and reformatting into tables. The assistant can process structured and unstructured data like figures of quantum circuits, scientific equations, scientific texts from scientific papers thereby reducing the cognitive load on researchers. In this talk, the users will learn how to setup and run a quantum computing simulation by merely uploading a screenshot of equation or image of circuit or just chatting with the HQS Modeling Assistant. This way the focus is shifted from the technical implementation of the scientific paper to the underlying concepts and insights.

Plenary Special Talk

Berufsperspektiven für Physiker:innen in der Schule

Thursday, March 13, 13:00–14:30, HS XVI

Victor Schneider — Annette-Gymnasium Münster

Gute Lehrer:innen benötigen ein dauerhaftes Interesse an ihrer eigenen geistigen Fortentwicklung, sonst können sie keine nachhaltigen Lernprozesse bei Schüler:innen initiieren. Diese Eigenschaft haben Physiker:innen mit ihrem Abschluss des anspruchsvollen Physikstudiums gezeigt. Darüber hinaus müssen Lehrer:innen über didaktische Fähigkeiten verfügen, um komplexe Konzepte verständlich zu vermitteln. Diese werden ihnen auch im Laufe der schulischen Vorbereitung vermittelt.
Der Physik wird mit ihrer evidenzbasierten Sichtweise eine besondere Rolle in der aktuellen Gesellschaftsentwicklung zuteil. So fördert guter Physikunterricht nicht nur eine positive Einstellung zum Lernen an sich, sondern schafft in unserer multipolaren, hoch technisierten, fragilen und ökologisch überstrapazierten Welt eine solide Basis für ein demokratisch solides und evidenzbasiertes Handeln.
In dem vorliegenden Vortrag werden zunächst die vorhandenen Fähigkeiten von Physiker:innen für den schulischen Kontext aufgezeigt und hinsichtlich der Berufswahl Lehren in der Schule und einer Karriere bzw. persönliche Weiterentwicklung im schulischen Kontext fokussiert. Auf dieser Basis werden die bundeslandspezifischen und formalen Aspekte für den Berufseinstieg in den Lehrerberuf dargestellt.
Der größte Teil der Zeit wird für eine aktive Diskussionsrunde reserviert, in der persönliche Fragen zum nicht einfachen Berufseinstieg besprochen und geklärt werden können.